Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2025

The Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2025 would strengthen and extend the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP). The bill increases the program’s funding and expands how the funds may be used, including allowing microloans to cover a larger amount of project costs and up to full (100%) federal participation for certain eligible costs. It also extends the period during which the program can operate (authorization window) from 2019–2023 to 2026–2030. The changes are designed to boost capital access and support for rural small businesses by rural-focused development organizations that provide microloans and related business support. In short, the bill aims to increase loan sizes, broaden eligible uses (notably real estate improvements), increase the government’s cost-sharing, and extend the program’s authorized timeframe.